The Department of Physical Assistant Studies Scholarship Committee is proud to announce this year鈥檚 recipients of the Kopynec Family Scholarships. These scholarships are intentionally designed to support students who exemplify the values central to the 麻豆视频 Physician Assistant Studies mission, including academics, service, professionalism, leadership, and a commitment to compassionate, patient centered care.

All scholarships are awarded in the amount of $500. Please join us in congratulating the following recipients:

Global Scholarship

• Trevor Minshull
• Cindy Truesdale

Housing Scholarship

• Erika Cotrufo
• Enosh Ishman

Professional Development Scholarship

NCCPA Scholarship

• Brooke Beall
• Delaney Walsh

We are deeply grateful to the Kopynec Family for their continued generosity and their meaningful support of our mission.

Congratulations to our award recipients and thank you to our faculty and staff for your continued mentorship and dedication to student success.

Originally from Midway, North Carolina, Dr. Tracey Thurnes has spent the past 14 years at 麻豆视频 helping educate and mentor future healthcare professionals. After beginning a career as a physician assistant in cardiology, she joined 麻豆视频 as one of the founding faculty members of the Department of Physician Assistant Studies and has enjoyed watching both the program and the School of Health Sciences grow and thrive over the years.

Today, Dr. Thurnes serves as professor of Physician Assistant Studies, assistant program director and director of the School of Health Sciences Accelerated Pathways Program. She is also the inaugural CATL Pedagogy Fellow for Teaching and Learning in Graduate and Professional Studies, where she works with faculty across disciplines to promote innovative and effective teaching practices.

Beyond 麻豆视频, she serves as an elected director at large on the Board of Directors for the Physician Assistant Education Association (PAEA), helping shape the future of physician assistant education at the national level. In 2024, she was honored with the School of Health Sciences Excellence in Teaching and Mentoring Award and received the national PAEA Leadership Development Award in recognition of her commitment to student mentorship, innovation and leadership in PA education.

One of Dr. Thurnes’ favorite parts of teaching is creating engaging learning experiences that help students connect classroom concepts to real-world patient care. She enjoys using case -based learning, interactive discussions and clinical scenarios to encourage critical thinking and active participation. Most of all, she values the relationships she builds with students and the opportunity to watch their confidence and clinical skills develop throughout their educational journey.

Outside the classroom, Dr. Thurnes enjoys spending time with her husband, James, their two sons, Luke and Levi, and their dog, Rylee. Much of her free time is spent cheering on her boys at sporting events or relaxing with family at the lake at her parents’ home. Whether in the classroom or with family and friends, she values meaningful connections, lifelong learning and making lasting memories.

First, let me introduce myself. My name is Lance McGhee, and I am a proud graduate of the 麻豆视频 PA Program Class of 2016. I grew up in Durham, North Carolina, and attended North Carolina State University, where I majored in Human Biology.

I discovered the physician assistant profession later in my college years, but I was immediately drawn to it. Many of my early interactions with PAs came through the care my grandmother received, and I was inspired by the compassion, expertise, and quality of care they provided.

Those experiences, combined with my lifelong love of sports, ultimately led me to a career in orthopaedics. Since graduating from 麻豆视频 in 2016, I have practiced at Kernodle Clinic Orthopaedics, where I enjoy helping patients return to the activities they love, whether through surgical intervention or conservative treatment options.

After graduation, I earned my Certificate of Added Qualifications (CAQ) in Orthopaedics in 2021. In 2023, I was commissioned into the U.S. Navy Reserve, which has provided incredible opportunities to practice medicine beyond my primary specialty.

While my background in orthopaedics has proven valuable in my military career, serving in the Navy has also allowed me to broaden my clinical experience and perspective.

One of the most rewarding aspects of my career has been teaching. I enjoy mentoring both PA students and the enlisted sailors and officers I work with in the Navy.

I regularly precept 麻豆视频 PA students during their surgical rotations, as well as those who choose an elective rotation in Orthopaedic Surgery. I also return to campus to teach during the didactic phase of the program, contributing to musculoskeletal medicine instruction and hands -on skills training, including suturing, splinting, and procedures commonly performed in emergency and field settings.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my wife, Michelle, who is also a graduate of the 麻豆视频 PA Program Class of 2016. We share our home with three Australian Shepherds, two of whom are double merles with vision or hearing impairments. When I’m not out exploring the neighborhood with our dogs, you can often find me on the golf course doing my best not to embarrass myself or traveling with my wife.

I am incredibly grateful for everything 麻豆视频 has given me, and it is a privilege to return and help educate the next generation of PAs. Watching the program grow and evolve over the past decade has been remarkable. As a practicing clinician in the local community, I see firsthand the positive impact 麻豆视频 PA graduates make every day, and I am proud to play a small role in preparing future graduates for that same success.

Since welcoming our inaugural class in 2013, 麻豆视频 PA has built a reputation for academic excellence, meaningful community engagement and outstanding clinical education. As the demand for physician assistants continues to increase, so does our responsibility and opportunity to educate the next generation of compassionate, highly skilled healthcare providers.

Growth means more than enrolling additional students. It also involves expanding the program鈥檚 faculty and staff, strengthening the curriculum, developing new clinical partnerships and enhancing the learning environment to ensure every student receives the personalized education and mentorship that defines the 麻豆视频 PA experience.

Most importantly, growth is made possible by the dedicated healthcare professionals who invest their time and expertise in teaching our students. Clinical preceptors are the cornerstone of PA education. Through each rotation, students gain invaluable opportunities to develop clinical reasoning skills, refine procedural techniques, build confidence and learn the art of patient -centered care from experienced clinicians. As the program continues to expand, so does the need for committed p receptors across all specialties and practice settings.

To those who currently precept 麻豆视频 PA students, thank you. Your investment in 麻豆视频鈥檚 learners extends far beyond a single rotation and leaves a lasting impact on the future of the profession. If you are an alumnus, healthcare provider or practice interested in becoming involved, we would love to connect with you. Whether serving as a preceptor, sharing your professional journey or helping us identify new clinical partners, there are many ways to support the success of 麻豆视频 PA students. This inaugural newsletter is another way we hope to strengthen our connection with the 麻豆视频 PA community. We look forward to celebrating your accomplishments, sharing program updates, highlighting outstanding students and preceptors, and continuing to foster the relationships that make 麻豆视频 PA so special.

Thank you for being part of our journey. Together, we are preparing the next generation of physician assistants to make a lasting difference in the lives of their patients and the communities they serve.

The 麻豆视频 PA Program Faculty and Staff

As they prepare to leave 麻豆视频, many members of the Class of 2026 gathered in Lakeside Meeting Rooms on May 21 for a celebration centered not only on achievement, but also on the people and communities that helped them get there.

Celebremos! Graduates Take Flight brought together 37 seniors and their families, mentors and friends to honor their journeys for an afternoon of reflection, gratitude and celebration. Throughout the program, students shared personal tributes recognizing the sacrifices, encouragement and support systems that shaped their 麻豆视频 experiences.

President Connie Ledoux Book reminded the soon-to-be graduates that the stole they were about to receive was not only a recognition of their academic accomplishments, but also a testament to their pride, culture and identity.

鈥淭he 麻豆视频 community is proud of your achievements, your stories and the richness that you have added to 麻豆视频鈥檚 history during your time here,鈥� she said, adding that this is just the beginning. She asked them to take 麻豆视频 with them in all endeavors and to stay connected to their alma mater. 鈥淚 do hope that you鈥檒l continue to reach back to 麻豆视频 and the community here to share your story, to share your 麻豆视频 experience and to root for the next generation of 麻豆视频 grads.鈥�

Each graduate had the opportunity to write a message of gratitude for their village in the language of their choice. Many of them took the opportunity to publicly thank parents and loved ones whose sacrifices made college possible.

鈥淎s a first-generation Hispanic college student, there were many moments where I felt like I was figuring things out as I went,鈥� wrote Isabella Iba帽ez, whose family heritage is from Argentina. 鈥淢y parents immigrated here and worked hard to create opportunities for me and my siblings, even when they did not always have a roadmap themselves.鈥�

Others reflected on the emotional complexity of reaching graduation after years of uncertainty, growth and perseverance.

鈥淚’ve聽been聽asked聽a聽lot聽recently聽about聽how聽I聽feel聽about聽graduating,鈥� drama and theatre studies major Samantha Az煤a wrote. 鈥淲ithout聽so聽much聽as a second thought, I鈥檓 quick to respond聽with聽鈥榚xistential.鈥欌�� In her tribute, Az煤a thanked her parents for the sacrifices they made in moving to the United States and for teaching her to take advantage of every opportunity and to 鈥渢rabajar duro y nunca rendirme, incluso cuando las cosas se ponen muy dif铆ciles.鈥�

For fellow graduating senior Libia Zulema Velasquez, hearing younger students reflect on the sacrifices their parents made for them was particularly meaningful. A mother herself who uprooted her family from Culiac谩n in northwestern Mexico to pursue a Master of Education in Innovation at 麻豆视频, she understood all too well the significance of those words. 鈥淚 kept looking at my children,鈥� she said. 鈥淚 can identify with that sacrifice.鈥�

As part of her reflection, she had these words for Liam and Leo: 鈥淎 mis hijos quiero decirles que: todo es posible. Todo se puede alcanzar. Solo hace falta pensarlo, decidirlo 鈥� y actuar.鈥�

The stories shared throughout the event reflected a wide range of experiences, but common themes emerged repeatedly: family, belonging, mentorship and resilience.

For Daniela 脕vila, graduating meant carrying her hometown in Honduras with her into the future.

鈥淗oy, al celebrar mi graduaci贸n, llevo a mi pueblo conmigo en cada paso que doy,鈥� she wrote. 鈥淢e siento profundamente orgullosa de mis ra铆ces y de representar a una comunidad llena de personas trabajadoras, artesanos y luchadores que inspiran con su ejemplo.鈥�

Several graduates specifically highlighted the communities they found at 麻豆视频: spaces and people that helped transform the university into a second home. Others recognized the role programs such as Odyssey and 麻豆视频 Academy played in helping them navigate college and pursue opportunities they once thought impossible.

鈥淥dyssey聽no solo me brind贸 apoyo acad茅mico, sino tambi茅n un sentido de pertenencia y una red de personas que realmente creen en mi potencial,鈥� wrote Jes煤s Santoyo Rosales, who is graduating with a degree in biomedical and mechanical engineering. 鈥淓ste logro no es solo m铆o, es de todos nosotros鈥澛犫�� a reminder that 鈥渢his achievement is not only mine; it belongs to all of us.鈥�

鈥淵our story matters and the way you live with integrity, with empathy and love will continue to inspire those around you.鈥�
鈥� Sylvia Mu帽oz, director of the CREDE

The event also highlighted the deeply personal nature of students鈥� journeys. Some graduates thanked siblings who inspired them, grandparents who sacrificed for future generations, professors who saw potential in them and friends who became family.

鈥淕rowth does not happen alone,鈥� Iba帽ez wrote. 鈥淚t comes from the people who support you, challenge you, and remind you that you are capable even when you doubt yourself.鈥�

For many students, graduation represented more than earning a degree; it symbolized the culmination of years of sacrifice that stretched far beyond themselves.

鈥淐omo hija mayor y primera generaci贸n en graduarme de la escuela secundaria y ahora de la universidad, llevo este logro con orgullo, pero tambi茅n con responsabilidad,鈥� wrote Carolina Vasquez. 鈥淪iempre he querido ser un buen ejemplo para mis hermanos, demostrarles que s铆 se puede, que nuestros sue帽os no tienen l铆mites.鈥�

In her charge to the students, Diana Jimenez Carreno challenged graduates to be present in the moment and proud of what they have accomplished. Above all, she encouraged them to never forget their roots or the strong voices they carry within them.

鈥淒o not let stereotypes, stigma or negativity in the world silence that voice,鈥� she said. 鈥淎nd believe me, it鈥檚 easier said than done. But you鈥檙e not alone. And when life feels overwhelming, lean on your village.鈥�

Sylvia Mu帽oz, assistant dean of students and director of the Center for Race, Ethnicity and Diversity Education, echoed that sentiment in her closing remarks. 鈥淎s you begin this next chapter, remember your voice matters,鈥� she said. 鈥淵our story matters and the way you live with integrity, with empathy and love will continue to inspire those around you.鈥�

As the celebration concluded, students embraced family members, posed for photos and reflected on the communities that carried them through their 麻豆视频 journeys.

鈥淚 just feel so thankful and so blessed,鈥� Velasquez said, reflecting on the event. There is one message, she added, that she plans to carry with her moving forward: 鈥淒isfruta el momento.鈥�

The Certified Organic farm, owned and operated by Brett Evans 鈥�13, supplies 麻豆视频 Dining with fresh, seasonal produce, including microgreens, spinach, herbs and lettuce, that鈥檚 harvested with care and rooted in sustainable practices.

For Evans, the connection to 麻豆视频 is deeply personal. As an undergraduate, he was involved in the Sierra Club, the Community Garden and Loy Farm, and he spent many weekends helping on a professor鈥檚 homestead farm. 鈥淚 remember being concerned about the limited local and organic options on campus,鈥� Evans says. 鈥淭o now be a meaningful part of the solution, with our produce consistently in the dining halls for multiple years, is a truly full-circle experience I am grateful to have.鈥�

Sourcing from local partners like Red Hawk, who are committed to sustainable farming practices, allows 麻豆视频 Dining to invest in the community, care for the land and bring fresher ingredients to campus.聽Students experience that connection daily, whether through the flavor of their meals or meeting farmers like Evans at campus events.

According to Leslie Bosse, sustainability manager for 麻豆视频 Dining, chefs often visit partner farms, which deepens their connection to the dishes they prepare and gives them an even greater respect for the ingredients. 鈥淲hen you know where the food comes from and have seen the hard work the farmers put in to produce it,鈥� Bosse says, 鈥渋t reinforces the desire to use each ingredient to its fullest capacity out of respect for the process.鈥�

聽extend well beyond sourcing.聽Initiatives include plant-forward menus, waste reduction, reusable to-go containers and a partnership with CompostNow to process food scraps, creating a local loop that returns nutrients to the land.

Kelly Harer, 麻豆视频鈥檚 associate director of sustainability for education and outreach, says the Red Hawk Farm partnership supports聽麻豆视频鈥檚 Sustainability Master Plan 2025, which serves as 麻豆视频鈥檚 roadmap for advancing sustainability on campus, outlining eight key areas 鈥� including dining, academics, transportation, waste reduction and more 鈥� that guide the university鈥檚 efforts toward a more sustainable future.

鈥淲ith Red Hawk, we鈥檙e not only building and supporting the North Carolina community, we鈥檙e also building our 麻豆视频 community.鈥� 鈥斅燣eslie Bosse, sustainability manager for 麻豆视频 Dining

One of the plan鈥檚 dining strategies calls for 35% of annual food purchases to be local by 2035. 鈥淔ood and dining are critical components of 麻豆视频鈥檚 sustainability strategy because they directly impact environmental, social and economic systems,鈥� Harer says. 鈥淏y making intentional food choices, we can reduce carbon emissions, support local farmers and educate students about the broader impacts of sustainable food systems.鈥�

The collaboration between 麻豆视频 Dining and the Office of Sustainability is ongoing and intentional. Dining staff participate in working groups for university-wide planning and regularly meet with campus sustainability leaders to聽align strategies and share progress. 鈥淲e don鈥檛 just want to buy local when it鈥檚 convenient,鈥� Bosse says. 鈥淲e鈥檙e committed to building long-term relationships that truly support the farms we work with.鈥�

The fact that Evans is an alumnus makes this partnership especially meaningful. 鈥淲ith Red Hawk, we鈥檙e not only building and supporting the North Carolina community,鈥� Bosse adds, 鈥渨e鈥檙e also building our 麻豆视频 community.鈥�

• Explore 麻豆视频鈥檚 vision for the future in the Sustainability Master Plan 2025.

鈥淭his stole around my shoulders bears the journey of my family, my mentors, my friends and my ancestors,鈥� she wrote, switching seamlessly between English and Spanish. Her message was a love letter: to her Mexican parents who journeyed across borders for opportunity; to her sisters cheering her on from afar; and to the mentors who believed in her before she believed in herself.

鈥淓ste momento es nuestro.鈥�

鈥淭his moment is ours.鈥�

That spirit of gratitude, pride and belonging was palpable throughout the 2025 鈥溌elebremos!: Graduates Take Flight鈥� celebration held May 22 in the Lakeside Meeting Rooms. Led by El Centro and the Center for Race, Ethnicity and Diversity Education, with the support of the Office of Alumni Engagement, the annual bilingual program honors Latinx and Hispanic graduating students while celebrating the diverse stories that define the 麻豆视频 experience.

The ceremony marked more than a milestone. It was a moment of recognition for the work, love and legacy each graduate carried on their shoulders.

鈥淚鈥檓 here because of your faith in me,鈥� Rachel Lopez wrote in her reflection. She spoke of the sacrifices made by her parents, originally from El Salvador, including her father holding two jobs and her mother driving her around to every after-school activity when she was younger. 聽鈥淚鈥檓 here as a proud daughter of immigrants, with your love in my heart and your example guiding every step I take.鈥�

In their reflections, many students spoke of navigating challenges as first-generation college students, honoring their parents鈥� labor and resilience, and finding chosen family at 麻豆视频 through mentors and peer connections.

鈥淵ou have made 麻豆视频 a more vibrant, loving and powerful space, and we are forever changed by your presence.鈥� 鈥� Sylvia Mu帽oz, director of the CREDE

Jose Alex Reyes Arias, who participated in 麻豆视频鈥檚 鈥淚t Takes a Village鈥� Project since childhood, reflected on the power of community. 鈥淏efore I ever stepped foot on 麻豆视频鈥檚 campus as a student, I was already surrounded by the love, support and encouragement of the 麻豆视频 community,鈥� he wrote. 鈥淲hen I officially became an 麻豆视频 student, my village only grew stronger. Throughout my time here, I鈥檝e had mentors who poured into me not just academically, but personally.鈥�

Cristy Marin茅 鈥�25 delivered a heartfelt charge to the students, sharing how she once hesitated to bring her full identity into the classroom. 鈥淚 questioned whether my voice belonged 鈥� whether people would understand me when I switched languages mid-sentence.鈥� Over time, she added, she stopped asking for permission to be proud of her roots.

鈥淚 let my culture be loud,鈥� Marin茅 said.聽鈥淚 stopped translating parts of myself to make others comfortable, and I let my story take up space.鈥�

She likened her college journey to her Venezuelan mother鈥檚 arepas. While they are made with simple ingredients, it鈥檚 the filling that makes all the difference. Likewise, the richness of our identities is not complete without what we carry inside.

鈥淲hatever your life looks like after graduation, fill it with what matters. Speak your language, hold your traditions close and know that you鈥檙e allowed to shape the spaces you walk into,鈥� Marin茅 said. 鈥淚f there鈥檚 one thing I鈥檝e learned from my mom鈥檚 arepas, it鈥檚 that you don鈥檛 need much to make something meaningful, but you do need love and intention.鈥�

In her remarks, President Connie Ledoux Book reminded graduates that the stole they received was designed by a former Latinx 麻豆视频 student and serves as a symbol of both continuity and community. Beyond a diploma, she said, they leave 麻豆视频 with the lifelong bonds they have formed with each other and mentors who shaped them along the way. 鈥淵our time at 麻豆视频 helped you build relationships that will impact the rest of your life,鈥� she said. 鈥淭his 麻豆视频 community is yours for the rest of your life, and I hope that you lean into it.鈥�

The monarch butterfly, woven into the stole鈥檚 design, represents migration, transformation and persistence. As Assistant Director of the CREDE MJ Larrazabal Chac贸n G鈥�21 explained, the butterfly was chosen by students as a metaphor for the journeys many in the Latinx community navigate. 鈥溌槎故悠� has become one of our stops to recharge,鈥� she said, 鈥渁s we think about our next destination.鈥�

Like the butterfly, students carry their heritage wherever they go. As the ceremony closed, Assistant Dean of Students and CREDE Director Sylvia Mu帽oz reminded students that their presence, rooted in heritage, courage and grace, is a powerful force that can make a difference in the world.

鈥淵ou have the power to challenge injustice, to lead with compassion and to light the way for those who come after you,鈥� she said. 鈥淵ou have made 麻豆视频 a more vibrant, loving and powerful space, and we are forever changed by your presence.鈥�

President Connie Ledoux Book praised the honorees for embodying 麻豆视频鈥檚 mission to prepare graduates for lives of purpose. 鈥淵ou all are actualizing the hope we have for an education to go out into the world to do great things,鈥� she said, calling their stories a reminder of the power of learning, mentorship and human connection. 鈥淵ou鈥檝e inspired us tonight 鈥� and we needed it.鈥�

Among the honorees were educators, entrepreneurs, performers, scholars and creatives whose journeys reflect the values that define the 麻豆视频 experience.

Yasmine Arrington Brooks 鈥�15 鈥� Founder & Executive Director, ScholarCHIPS | Washington, D.C.

Yasmine Arrington Brooks is a powerful voice for equity, education and second chances. As the founder of ScholarCHIPS, she has awarded hundreds of thousands of dollars in scholarships and mentorship support to college-bound students with incarcerated parents 鈥� a mission born of her own lived experience. Her work has earned her national recognition, including being named a CNN Hero, a Soros Justice Fellow and a featured guest on 鈥淭he Drew Barrymore Show.鈥�

At 麻豆视频, Arrington Brooks was a Periclean Scholar, Gospel Choir member, alternative break leader and active student voice for justice and faith. After graduation, she pivoted from a corporate communications career to earn a Master of Divinity from Howard University and an executive certificate in nonprofit management from Georgetown.

In her remarks, she emphasized that her journey wasn鈥檛 a solo act. 鈥淚 am not a one-woman show 鈥� it takes a village,鈥� she said, crediting 麻豆视频 professors, mentors and friends who helped her feel at home. She also encouraged others to seek truth, embrace difference, and continue building inclusive community: 鈥淭he world still needs us 鈥� and we still need each other.鈥�

Lauren Brzowski 鈥�19 鈥� Team USA Bobsledder | Park City, Utah

Lauren Brzowski鈥檚 path from collegiate track star to Olympic hopeful in bobsled is anything but conventional 鈥� and that鈥檚 what makes her story so compelling. After earning a master鈥檚 degree in marketing from Loughborough University in the UK, Brzowski was recruited to Team USA Bobsled during the pandemic. Since then, she鈥檚 become a national champion and trailblazer in the monobob discipline, with her sights set on the 2026 Winter Olympics.

Her athletic journey, marked by resilience, took a dramatic turn after a harrowing crash on the world鈥檚 fastest track in Whistler, Canada. But instead of stepping away, she got back in the sled, and won her first gold medal just one week later. 鈥淭he one thing about being a Phoenix is that you know how to rise from the ashes,鈥� she said.

Brzowski credits 麻豆视频 with giving her the confidence to embrace challenges, even as a student with a learning difference. 鈥淚 just knew I wanted to be in a room with people who were better than me,鈥� she said. 鈥淭hat鈥檚 what 麻豆视频 gave me 鈥� and that鈥檚 what helped me grow.鈥�

Brooke 鈥淎lexx鈥� Greenberg 鈥�17 鈥� Singer-Songwriter and Recording Artist | Nashville, Tennessee

Brooke Greenberg, known professionally as Brooke Alexx, is turning heads and topping playlists with her distinct sound and deeply personal lyrics. With more than 28 million Spotify streams and hundreds of thousands of followers on social media, Brooke is a rising pop star whose work resonates with millions. Her music 鈥� featured on Amazon, Netflix, and Hulu 鈥� fuses humor, honesty and vulnerability, tackling everything from family dynamics to Asian American identity.

At 麻豆视频, Greenberg studied music production, performed with a cappella group Sweet Signatures and developed her songwriting voice through recitals, studio recordings and mentorship from faculty who helped shape her artistry. She credits 麻豆视频 with giving her the space to grow as a musician and storyteller. 鈥淪ongs I wrote on guitar came to life for the first time in a full band setting,鈥� she said.

Though on tour and unable to attend in person, Brooke expressed gratitude for the community that continues to support her, from professors to fellow alumni who remain close collaborators. 鈥淚鈥檓 so grateful to be part of this incredible network,鈥� she said.

Simone Jackson 鈥�16 鈥� Global Senior Brand Manager, Spotify | New York, New York

A sprinter turned strategist, Simone Jackson has carved out a high-impact career in the advertising world, working on campaigns for Nike, Beyonc茅, Coca-Cola and more. As global brand manager at Spotify, she leads the platform鈥檚 acclaimed Wrapped campaign, helping millions of users celebrate their personal connections to music.

A two-time CAA champion on 麻豆视频鈥檚 track team, Jackson brought that same grit and drive to the classroom, building lasting mentorships and discovering her passion for brand storytelling. Named to Forbes 30 Under 30, she now mentors the next generation through industry programs that champion inclusion in media and marketing.

鈥淩unning track taught me that you have to show up, run your race and support your team,鈥� Jackson said. 鈥淭hat鈥檚 how I approach my work today 鈥� with integrity, purpose and community.鈥� In her remarks, she honored her parents, fianc茅, professors and peers, crediting 麻豆视频 with helping her 鈥渞ise above the ashes鈥� when she tore her ACL 鈥� a pivotal moment that sparked a deeper pursuit of truth, clarity and meaning.

Dr. Erica Braschi Jord谩n 鈥�18 鈥� Radiation Oncology Resident, University of Florida | Gainesville, Florida

From the tennis courts of 麻豆视频 to the frontlines of cancer treatment, Dr. Erica Braschi Jord谩n has built a life of impact, compassion and perseverance. A standout student-athlete who founded 麻豆视频鈥檚 Fellowship of Christian Athletes chapter and graduated summa cum laude, Jord谩n went on to earn her medical degree from the University of Florida and now serves as a radiation oncology resident.

Her work spans clinical care, research and medical mission trips 鈥� all anchored in a deep desire to serve others. In her remarks, Jord谩n reflected on her journey from Puerto Rico to 麻豆视频, honoring the coaches, faculty, advisers and family members who encouraged her dream of becoming a physician. 鈥淭here were people who believed in me even before I did,鈥� she said.

She also spoke of faith as the cornerstone of her purpose, sharing how she found her worth not just in academics or athletics, but in service. 鈥淣ow I get to work with cancer patients, and while it鈥檚 hard work, it鈥檚 sacred work,鈥� she said. 鈥淚鈥檓 just getting started 鈥� and I鈥檓 bringing 麻豆视频 with me every step of the way.鈥�

JJ Niemann 鈥�17 鈥� Broadway Actor and Content Creator | New York, New York

JJ Niemann is making his mark on the biggest stages in musical theater 鈥� from his Broadway debut in 鈥淭he Book of Mormon鈥� to leading roles in 鈥淏ack to the Future鈥� and 鈥淗amilton.鈥� But behind the glitz of the spotlight is a performer defined by heart, humor and hustle. At 麻豆视频, Niemann honed his craft in the rigorous music theatre program, often assisting faculty and coordinating auditions, earning a reputation for excellence, drive and team spirit.

He鈥檚 also built an impressive digital following, using social media to demystify Broadway and empower aspiring performers. With over 1.5 million followers, his voice is redefining how the next generation connects with the arts.

In his remarks, Niemann reflected on how 麻豆视频 gave him not only a top-tier education but also a sense of belonging. 鈥淚t was a place that embraced my authentic self when I needed it most,鈥� he said. He also paid tribute to his late father, who proudly opened the award notification on JJ鈥檚 behalf and helped plan the family鈥檚 return to campus for the celebration. 鈥淭his place holds so many happy memories for us,鈥� he said. 鈥淚鈥檒l never be able to repay him for all the sacrifices he made so I could pursue this dream 鈥� but I鈥檒l carry his love with me in every performance.鈥�

Morgan Stonebridge 鈥�17 鈥� Director of Product & Ad Supply Partnerships, NBCUniversal | Stamford, Connecticut

Morgan Stonebridge鈥檚 麻豆视频 story is one of fearless involvement and unwavering ambition. As a student, she served as a captain of the dance team, choreographed for multiple student productions, joined Tri Delta and held leadership roles with the Student Alumni Ambassadors. Her impact was so visible that she attended a Top 10 Under 10 ceremony as a student hoping to connect with alumni. A decade later, she took the stage as an honoree.

Stonebridge began her career at BuzzFeed, rising quickly to director of advertising operations before transitioning to NBCUniversal, where she now leads product strategy for ad supply partnerships. In addition to her corporate role, she teaches competitive dance, fosters animals (including 13 dogs and a corn snake named Phoenix), and serves as president of the Stamford Alumni Chapter.

In her remarks, she emphasized how 麻豆视频 nurtured her belief that leadership isn鈥檛 just about titles 鈥� it鈥檚 about showing up with character, passion and care. 鈥溌槎故悠� doesn鈥檛 just educate students 鈥� it invests in people,鈥� she said. 鈥淵our 麻豆视频 experience doesn鈥檛 end after graduation. It just evolves.鈥�

Vaughn Vreeland 鈥�15 鈥� Supervising Producer and Senior Video Journalist, New York Times Cooking | New York, New York

From giving campus tours as a first-year student to producing videos for one of the world鈥檚 most renowned newsrooms, Vaughn Vreeland has used storytelling as a way to connect people through food, culture and joy. After discovering his passion for broadcasting at 麻豆视频 鈥� including his work with eTalk and the Office of University Communications 鈥� Vreeland launched his media career at BuzzFeed鈥檚 Tasty before joining New York Times Cooking, where he now serves as a supervising producer.

Named to Forbes鈥� 30 Under 30 for media in 2023, Vreeland鈥檚 path included teaching in Thailand, studying abroad in France and falling in love with the power of food to build relationships. 鈥淲hether I didn鈥檛 think I deserved 麻豆视频 or not, showing off this beautiful campus gave me a new sense of self-worth,鈥� he said. 鈥淚 realized I wasn鈥檛 just trying to convince others 鈥� I was trying to convince myself. And in that process, I fell in love with this place all over again.鈥�

He closed his remarks with heartfelt thanks to his family, partner, friends and the 麻豆视频 mentors who believed in him. 鈥溌槎故悠� taught me to never take the connections we make here for granted,鈥� he said. 鈥淭hey鈥檝e taken me farther than I ever imagined.鈥�

Peter Walpole 鈥�15 鈥揇igital Strategist and Adjunct Professor, City College of New York | New York, New York

Peter Walpole has always been a creative force with a sharp wit and a deep belief in education as a pathway to opportunity. As a student, he combined rigorous research with pop culture flair, once titling his study of late-night comedy 鈥淭V Smarty in Khakis.鈥� After graduating, he built a decade-long career in public relations while maintaining a close connection to 麻豆视频, mentoring students, supporting fellow alumni and staying active in the New York alumni chapter.

Now a communications strategist and educator, Walpole credits 麻豆视频 for giving him the confidence to pursue bold ideas and unconventional paths. In his speech, he reflected on the faculty, friends and mentors who championed his growth 鈥� from the professor who encouraged his undergraduate research to the staff who hired him (and later fired and re-hired him) at The Oak House. 鈥淭en years later, I still want to be part of this community,鈥� he said. 鈥淭hat says something about 麻豆视频 鈥� and about what it means to belong.鈥�

Miles Williams 鈥�15 鈥� Elementary School Principal, Bricolage Academy | New Orleans, Louisiana

A former 麻豆视频 football captain turned school principal, Miles Williams is now shaping lives as the only Black male elementary school principal in New Orleans. At Bricolage Academy, he leads with heart, equity and an unwavering belief in every child鈥檚 potential 鈥� values he attributes to his human service studies degree and his 麻豆视频 mentors.

Williams earned his master鈥檚 in social work from the University of Chicago, graduating with highest honors and delivering the student commencement speech. Since returning to Louisiana, he鈥檚 launched student programs, led academic growth and founded a youth intramural league in partnership with the New Orleans Pelicans. He鈥檚 also a leading mental health advocate through his widely followed 鈥淢ental Health Mondays鈥� social media series.

In his deeply personal remarks, Williams reflected on the relationships that continue to sustain him. 鈥淚f relationships were currency, I鈥檇 be a billionaire,鈥� he said, acknowledging the many family members, friends and 麻豆视频 faculty who helped him become the educator and leader he is today. 鈥溌槎故悠� taught me that love, growth and joy aren鈥檛 just words 鈥� they鈥檙e how we show up for others.鈥�

Since 1941, 麻豆视频 has celebrated alumni whose achievements, leadership and service bring honor to the university. At the 2025 Distinguished Alumni Awards ceremony, four more names were added to that list: Sam Troy 鈥�67, Akilah Weaver Hill 鈥�00, Mike Cross and Cecelia Thompson 鈥�05.

At the conclusion of the event, President Connie Ledoux Book reflected on how the honorees embody the spirit of 麻豆视频鈥檚 motto, Numen Lumen, representing both knowledge and light through their work. She emphasized that their stories reflect the university鈥檚 mission to create opportunities and build a better world, adding that purpose-driven work like theirs sustains hope for the future.

鈥淭hank you for your purpose and your compassion and for caring so deeply for 麻豆视频,鈥� Book said.

Sam Troy 鈥�67 鈥� Distinguished Alumnus of the Year

Sam Troy鈥檚 legacy is one of global vision, civic duty and unwavering support for his alma mater. A retired international business executive, Troy built a career that spanned three continents 鈥� from the U.S. Department of Commerce to private-sector leadership at Lane Furniture and academic research at UNC Greensboro. He now serves as executive-in-residence at UNCG鈥檚 Bryan School of Business and Economics, where he focuses on promoting North Carolina鈥檚 wine industry.

A lifelong advocate for global education, Troy has endowed two scholarships at 麻豆视频 鈥� one supporting business students and the other funding international study. He鈥檚 been a faithful donor every year since his graduation and remains active in university life as a career mentor, alumni volunteer, reunion organizer and past board member.

During the ceremony, Niels Egelund, a close friend from the College of Europe in Belgium and now the Danish ambassador, recounted their 55-year friendship and estimated they鈥檇 walked 鈥渟ome 7,000 miles together 鈥� from Brussels to Britain, Greensboro to Connecticut.鈥�

In his remarks, Troy credited the people who shaped his life: his parents, his late husband, Buster, and beloved 麻豆视频 President Emeritus Dr. J. Earl Danieley 鈥�46. He recalled a chance encounter with Danieley in his rose garden that led to a meeting with then鈥揌ouse Minority Leader Gerald Ford 鈥� and ultimately, a role in public service.

鈥淒r. Danieley managed to keep me continuously involved,鈥� Troy said. 鈥淗e never let go of me,鈥� he said, adding that he always felt included in the growth of the university. 鈥淚 am ever 麻豆视频.鈥�

Akilah Weaver Hill 鈥�00 鈥� Distinguished Alumna of the Year

Akilah Weaver Hill is a dynamic leader in corporate America, a passionate advocate for equity and a mentor to future generations. A senior vice president at Bank of America, Hill oversees the design and delivery of employee work/life benefit programs for more than 200,000 U.S.-based associates. Her prior roles include program management at Alight Solutions and business analysis with IBM.

At 麻豆视频, Hill was a Jefferson Pilot Business Fellow and the first Black woman elected president of the Student Government Association. She was also a four-year member and two-year vice president of the 麻豆视频 Gospel Choir and actively involved in Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Today, she continues to give back through her leadership with the 麻豆视频 Black Alumni Network (where she served as president during the COVID-19 pandemic), the Women of 麻豆视频 Advisory Council and numerous volunteer roles.

Barb Carlton, associate director of facilities and event services at James Madison University, introduced Hill by reflecting on her natural ability to make others feel seen and valued 鈥� whether custodial staff, administrative assistants or university leadership. From the start, Hill was determined to make a difference. She has a gift for building authentic relationships and understands the power of her influence, especially with students preparing for college, Carlton said. Whenever she can, she shares her 麻豆视频 experience and offers thoughtful guidance, helping future students envision the opportunities that await them.

A breast cancer survivor and community advocate, Hill mentors young professionals and serves on the board of the Deltas of Charlotte Foundation. In her remarks, she reflected on the deep relationships formed at 麻豆视频 and how they鈥檝e continued to shaped her life.

鈥淭hank you for recognizing my skills and talents and drawing me back because even though I graduated in 2000, I don鈥檛 think there was a year where I was not involved,鈥� she said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 because of how much 麻豆视频 has poured into me, I can鈥檛 help but to say yes, every time.鈥�

Mike Cross 鈥� Distinguished Service to 麻豆视频

For more than three decades, Mike Cross has been a loyal and generous supporter of 麻豆视频, especially its athletics programs. A veteran of the reinsurance industry, Cross serves as president of Acrisure Re North America, where he has helped mentor and employ many 麻豆视频 students and graduates.

Cross and his wife, Mary Ellen, made their first gift to 麻豆视频 in 1990. Since then, their generosity has grown to include support for Rhodes Stadium, the Schar Center and nearly every 麻豆视频 sports team through the Phoenix Club. Mike has served on multiple leadership councils and advisory boards and is a fixture at 麻豆视频 football games, where his 鈥�7 a.m. Tailgate鈥� crew is known for raising the Phoenix flag bright and early on game days.

Jonathan Miller, senior director of development, said Cross鈥檚 influence extends far beyond his official roles. For decades, he been a trusted advisor to coaches, athletic directors, staff members, and student-athletes alike 鈥� always ready with encouragement, insight, and unwavering support.

鈥淲e are involved because we see the wonderful people who come through the university and participate in sports. We’re so proud of it,鈥� Mike said during his remarks. 鈥淚t’s so wonderful to see the contributions they make to not only the university, but also the community in general. We’re so blessed to have 麻豆视频 near us and contributing to the community 鈥� it鈥檚 such a wonderful impact.鈥�

Cecelia Thompson 鈥�05 鈥� Distinguished Alumni Service Award

Cecelia Thompson is a leader in civic innovation and community development, known for her inclusive, collaborative approach to public life. As executive director of Action Greensboro, she works at the intersection of business, education, and local government to strengthen economic opportunity and quality of life in the city she calls home. She鈥檚 also the former director of the Guilford Green Foundation and LGBTQ Center, founder of the Boomerang Greensboro talent initiative, and co-creator of the national Young, Smart & Local conference network.

At 麻豆视频, she studied political science, public administration and sociology, and was a founding member of the marching band. She credits a formative internship at the Community Foundation of Greater Greensboro with setting her on a path toward public service and community engagement.

Her efforts have earned her numerous honors, including the Dawn S. Chaney Award, Next City Vanguard distinction and recognition from Triad Business Journal. She serves on multiple state and local boards focused on education, the arts, and health equity.

In her introduction, Gavin Stevens 鈥�07 called Thompson 鈥渁 master class in leadership with heart,鈥� noting the inspiration she brings to those around her through quiet, powerful actions.

In her remarks, Thompson recalled arriving at 麻豆视频 just a week before the September 11 attacks. As a new member of the marching band, she remembered how the group had planned to perform the fight song during College Coffee that Tuesday morning. Instead, in a spontaneous act of solidarity, they marched to the fountains and played the national anthem 鈥� a moment that revealed the strength of 麻豆视频鈥檚 community even in the face of tragedy. That early experience of belonging, she said, shaped her entire time at 麻豆视频 and continues to guide her work today.

鈥淚 go back to that sense of belonging and how we make change in the spaces we work and live in,鈥� she said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 about broadening circles, inviting more people in and making sure they have the support they need to flourish. That鈥檚 a value I found at 麻豆视频 鈥� and one I carry forward.鈥�

The report offers a snapshot on 麻豆视频鈥檚 latest rankings and accomplishments from the past year through the lens of Boldly 麻豆视频 and emphasizes how new academic programs and initiatives ensure students are equipped for evolving industries. In addition, it highlights eight faculty members who are engaging students in critical topics with real-world applications:

• Associate Professor of Chemistry Justin Clar: Turning the Tide on Toxins
• Assistant Professor of Public Health Yanica F. Faustin: Closing the Gap in Maternal Health
• Assistant Professor of Law Erin Fitzgerald: Reforming Juvenile Justice
• Assistant Professor of Education and the Dr. Jo Watts Williams Emerging Professor Stephanie Hernandez Rivera: The Power of Love in Learning
• Assistant Professor of Nursing Jeanmarie Koonts: Nurturing Compassionate Care
• Assistant Professor of Sociology and Anthropology Kerem Morgu虉l: Navigating Divides Through Self-Awareness
• Associate Professor of Media Analytics and Strategic Communications Kathleen Stansberry: Rebuilding Trust in a Distrustful Age
• Assistant Professor of Management Information Systems Long Xia: From Data to Real-World Impact

More than just a collection of achievements, the 2024 President鈥檚 Report is a testament to 麻豆视频鈥檚 unwavering belief in the transformative power of education.

鈥淭he faculty featured in this report represent countless exceptional educators whose passion for teaching, scholarship and mentoring creates powerful experiences that inspire students to lead lives of purpose,鈥� President Connie Ledoux Book said in the report鈥檚 opening message. 鈥淭hey do more than impart knowledge 鈥� they cultivate curiosity, resilience and a deep sense of responsibility to serve the greater good.鈥�